What Pleases God? (March 6, 2024) 

“When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” (Proverbs 16:7)

Biblical truth clearly teaches that we should seek to live our earthly lives in ways that please God, not the world or our fellow human beings. We must resist peer pressure to conform to worldly thinking and behavior and center our hearts on Jesus Christ. The LORD promises throughout the Holy Scriptures to bless those who lead Christian lifestyles that find favor in His sight. God’s Word reveals many practices in which we must purposefully engage to bring pleasure to the God of our creation through our thoughts, words, and actions. What are some of these avenues that we should be pursuing daily to bring delight to our loving, gracious God? Let’s explore two of the essential elements that are evident in the lives of those who please God.

“And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight.” (1 John 3:22)

God requires obedience to His will, purpose, and plan---divinely conceived before the foundation of the world was laid---for each of us as individuals uniquely created in His own image. God’s commandments, in particular, and His omniscient wisdom, in general, are offered to guide us to the attainment of the most faithful, fruitful, and fulfilling lives possible. Human obedience flows out of our love for God, appreciation for His earthly blessings, and gratitude for His provision for our everlasting salvation based on heartfelt belief in His Son Jesus Christ. Faith is foremost in prompting us to walk in trusting obedience that genuinely pleases God to our benefit, now and eternally.

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6)